Best Sunscreens in the Philippines
After our search for the best sunscreen in the Philippines, we’re now more convinced of how important it is to find the right brand and product (or the “holy grail,” as many influencers call it). Since we need to wear this product every day, it’s important to find the best fit for us in many circumstances. Which sunscreen is the best when wearing makeup? Which one is the best for oily skin? Which is the best to use during lazy days? That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best sunscreens in the Philippines with the hope that you’ll find one that fits you.
What is the Best Sunscreen in the Philippines?
1. Rrawskincare Waterbaby Watermelon Cream Sunblock SPF75
Highest SPF level for complete sun protection
We have always been a fan of Rrawskincare because of their local, organic, and cruelty-free products. So, naturally, the Waterbaby Watermelon Cream Sunblock SPF75 did not disappoint, Made with reef-friendly zinc oxide, this sunblock offers incredible UVA and UVB protection at SPF75. And not only that, but because of its thick cream formulation, it can also double as an amazing make-up base for everyday use. It is non-sticky and much easier to apply, too!Â
Mild and moisturising formulation
Aside from zinc oxide, this sunblock contains shea butter that allows it to be highly moisturising. It does not feel heavy at all, and most importantly, does not leave a white cast. This is god-sent if you are someone who sweats easily, especially during summertime. You will not need to re-apply hundreds of times in a day. Oh, and with its sweet, fruity scent, it will definitely be perfect to wear during summer! For best results, it is recommended to pair this sunblock with Rrawskincare’s Vitamin C Cream and Liquid Sunblock.
Moreover, we love how the Rrawskincare Waterbaby Watermelon Cream Sunblock has an extremely mild formulation. You can use it on both your face and body. And as its name implies, even young children and babies can use it!
What we love about Rrawskincaree sunblock:Â
- Local, organic, and cruelty-free
- SPF75 and PA++
- Lightweight formulation
- Thicker consistency for easy application on the body
- Also doubles as a makeup base
Check out Rrawskincare > |
2. Vitapack Whitening UV Sunscreen
Whitening and sun protection in one tube
The Vitapack Whitening UV Sunscreen has everything we are looking for in a sunscreen. It provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF 50+ and PA++++ which is perfect when living in a tropical country like the Philippines. And if you feel like your skin is being dull lately, you will love that this sunscreen from Vitapack also comes with whitening capabilities. Infused with antioxidants in Sunflower oil and Vitamin E, this sunscreen helps to speed up rejuvenation and even out your skin tone. For Filipinas, this sunscreen is the holy grail! It keeps your skin younger-looking by protecting it against the sun’s harmful rays, and at the same time, helps lighten and moisturise your skin.Â
Lightweight and non-sticky formula
If you have naturally oily skin, then you will know how it gets tough during hotter days, especially during summertime. This is why those with oily skin should always get a sunscreen that can handle their skin type. Fortunately, the Vitapack Whitening UV Sunscreen has a lightweight and non-sticky formula, so you can use it daily regardless of the weather. It is water-resistant too!
What we love about Vitapack whitening UV sunscreen:
- Whitening, nourishing, and moisturising
- Solid sun protection with its high SPF and PA ratingÂ
- Keeps skin young-looking
- Lightweight, non-greasy
- Water-resistant
- Ideal for daily useÂ
Check out Vitapack > |
3. Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick
Many of us in the Philippines might be skeptical about investing in sunscreens despite its necessity, mainly because of its sticky texture. After all, the country is humid all year long! Even if it isn’t summer, the sweaty and sticky feeling will always be there. That’s why we were so happy to have discovered Beauty of Joseon’s Matte Sun Stick. First of all, it comes in a stick that’s easy to apply–it won’t stick to your palms and fingers and is totally mess-free. The formula is also amazing! It’s matte and doesn’t get clumpy or greasy even when used several times over makeup. It can also act as your makeup primer since it is slightly powdery and gives a mattifying effect. No worries about the texture though, since it still glides smoothly and is comfortable on the skin.Â
While its texture and form are already amazing, it doesn’t stop there. It’s even infused with more awesome ingredients–this product can protect your skin with SPF 50+ PA++++ and at the same time provide other skin benefits. We really love that it contains mugwort and camellia to help soothe irritation. These ingredients are really important, especially if you’re suffering from sunburn or skin irritation under intense heat. And the best ingredient? The silica powder, which is great for sebum control. This ensures that the sunscreen is suitable for oily to combination skin types, alleviating concerns about excessive moisture during sweltering, sticky days in the Philippines.
What we love about this sunscreen:
- It features a matte formula that doesn’t get clumpy or greasy even when used several times over makeup
- Also contains silica powder for sebum control
- Infused with mugwort and camelia to help soothe irritation
Check out Beauty of Joseon > |
4. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
There are tons of sunscreens available in the Philippines, but they all differ, especially in texture. If you sweat a lot, then we recommend getting a water-based sunscreen instead of creamy formulas. Our top pick for water-based sunscreens is the Biore Watery Essence. We absolutely love its light formulation that is easy to spread on the skin. Regarding its formula, it boasts the maximum UV protection of SPF50+ PA++++ and has the World’s First Micro Defense UV Formula that fully covers the skin surface, so one pea-sized amount is enough to cover your whole face! It is also infused with unique Aqua Micro Capsules that burst upon contact with the skin and leave it feeling light and moisturized. And since it has this moisturising effect, it’s great for those days you don’t feel like putting on a lot of products–just this sunscreen that can also act as a moisturiser and a makeup base and you’re good to go.
What we love about the Biore sunscreen:
- Features maximum UV protection and the world’s first Micro Defense UV formula
- It is water & sweat resistant
- Can also be used as a makeup base
Check out Biore > |
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen
A milky consistency that melts easily on the skin
La Roche-Posay is a French thermal brand known worldwide for the effectiveness of its products for sensitive skin. They also claim to be the #1 dermo-cosmetic brand in the world, recommended by 90,000 dermatologists! There is also a selection of sunscreens in their range, but our favourite is the Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100. We totally understand why it’s called ‘milk’, even though it’s missing the ingredient. “Milk” is a fancy European term for a sunscreen with a liquid, gouty texture rather than a pasty consistency. Therefore, you can be sure that this sunscreen will easily melt into your skin and be absorbed quickly!
Contains the highest SPF level of 100 without causing irritation
What we also loved about this sunscreen is that it has a higher SPF than other brands. It provides broad-spectrum UV protection for sun-sensitive skin, making it a great addition to your skincare routine, especially if your skin is prone to burns. Even with such a high SPF, you don’t have to worry about it being harsh on your skin because it’s been formulated and rigorously tested for skin tolerance, even on sensitive skin!
What we love about this sunscreen:
- It blends easily without leaving a white cast behind
- Wearable under makeup
- Has a powerful antioxidant complex to help protect the skin from free radicals caused by UV rays
- Water-resistant (up to 80 mins)
- Formulated and rigorously tested for skin tolerance, even on sensitive skin
Check prices on Shopee and Lazada > |
6. Face Republic Glow Screen Sun Gel SPF50+
For a guilt-free and more radiant look
Protecting skin from harmful UV rays, Face Republic Glow Screen Sun Gel comes with SPF50+. This non-greasy sunscreen keeps your skin moisturized without a white cast. We love that this comes with a radiant and smoother skin finish, making it the perfect base even in a swimsuit. This is also vegan-certified and reef-friendly so you do not need to worry about patronizing non-sustainable products. Additionally, this is also dermatologically tested and ideal even for those with ultra-sensitive and dry skin. Since this can be applied to the face, some even love to use this as a makeup base.
What we love about this sun gel:
- Leaves skin more radiant and moisturized
- Vegan-certified and reef-friendly
- Perfect base for sunny day makeup
- Non-greasy and no white cast
Check prices on Shopee and Lazada > |
7. Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen
Features an auto-booster technology that automatically responds to sweat
While sunscreen is the holy grail for many skincare enthusiasts, some people, especially those who sweat a lot, find it hard to find one that doesn’t come off easily in the scorching heat. Fortunately, Anessa is the sunscreen expert in this respect! This sunscreen automatically reacts to sweat, water and moisture in the air. It works by first absorbing moisture with an immunity booster ingredient. And then, it activates Aqua Booster technology to form a uniform film of UV rays. So even if you accidentally wipe your face or sweat profusely, the technology will protect you all day. Above all, it has a beautifying effect, allowing the formula to spread evenly and give glowing skin!
What we love about Anessa UV sunscreen:
- Can be used as a makeup primer
- Mask stuffiness resistant
- A refreshing fragrance of fruity floral
- Very water-resistant (verified by an 80-minute bathing test)
- Formulated with plant-derived moisturizing ingredients and beauty ingredients
Check prices on Shopee and Lazada > |
8. Cetaphil Sun SPF50+ Gel Sunscreen
With IR PA++++ rating for indoor protection
Cetaphil is one of the top skincare brands in the Philippines. Its sunscreen is tested by dermatologists and even recommended for people with sensitive or oily skin types. Even if you make Cetaphil Sun a part of your daily skin routine, there is really nothing to worry about because it’s so lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin that you will love putting it on! Best of all, this sunscreen has qualities that most skincare enthusiasts prefer, such as being fragrance- and paraben-free, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant.
Not only does the Cetaphil Sun soothes and protects your skin from sun damage, but also offers IR radiation (infrared rays) protection which is essential for time spent indoors. Sunlight can harm your skin when UV and infrared radiation isn’t completely blocked out by your windows. This way, this sunscreen will completely protect your skin, even when you are indoors during endless lockdowns! Indeed, this product will be your best companion for both indoor and outdoor adventures.
What we love about this gel sunscreen in the Philippines:
- Immediately absorbed and leaves the skin feeling smooth, soft, and protected
- High UV protection suitable even for the most sensitive skin
- Water and saltwater resistant
- Fragrance- and paraben-free
- Lightweight and non-greasy
Check out Cetaphil > |
9. Luxe Organix Aqua Daily Sunscreen
If you want the overall benefits of Cetaphil Sun but at a better price, Luxe Organix Aqua Daily Sunscreen is worth a try. It’s a more affordable alternative that you can easily find in drugstores or supermarkets near you! To top it off, it is a lightweight and waterproof formula that provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF 50 PA+++ for UVA and UVB. It is also quick-absorbing and non-greasy, making it perfect for everyday use and suitable even for sensitive skin.
The Luxe Organix Aqua Daily Sunscreen is contained in a 50ml pump bottle, which is quite different from the usual tubes. It has this white to almost yellowish colour in appearance and creamy consistency that’s not tacky nor sticky when applied. Moreover, the sunscreen won’t leave a white cast nor have a bothersome scent or feel. Overall, we recommend this product if you want the best protection from the sun and all the benefits without the hefty price tag.
What we love about Luxe’s daily sunscreen:
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- No white cast
- Has a light and pleasant smell
- More affordable option
Check out Luxe Organix > |
10. ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick
Easy to use sun stick
ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick wows us with its unconventional product presentation. It’s handy and travel-friendly, making it ideal for your small pouch or travel bag. Furthermore, this helps keep your skin from discolouration and protects you from Ultraviolet A and B rays. Prolonging the time for safe sun exposure, you can rest assured that this can also help prevent excess skin inflammation and burn. It is also easy to apply because of its stick design and locks in moisture on your skin. Since this also has hyaluronic acid, you do not need to worry about dehydration as well. Moreover, this also feels lightweight on the skin with no discomfort.
What we love about Isntree:
- With hyaluronic acid
- Comes in a stick form that’s easy to glide and apply
- Locks in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated
- Lightweight with no discomfort
Check prices on Shopee and Lazada > |
11. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen
Velvety-matte finish for oily skin
If you dislike the sticky sensation caused by sunscreen, this is a highly recommended product. Unseen Sunscreen by Supergoop! is a must-have for those with oily skin. It’s an SPF 40 sunscreen that’s claimed to be completely invisible, weightless, odourless, and makeup-friendly. It’s also antioxidant-rich, oil-free, and gives skin a velvety matte finish. Because the formula is so light, you wouldn’t even notice it was there! It is also suggested for individuals with oily skin thanks to its weightlessness. Overall, the buzz around Unseen Sunscreen is well-deserved owing to its makeup compatibility and the effortless way it interacts with the skin.
What we love about this Supergoop sunscreen:
- Feels non-greasy & soothing for oilier skin
- An antioxidant-rich formula that is scentless and oil-free
- Weightless and invisible
Check out Supergoop > |
12. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
Best Korean-brand sunscreen
Almost all malls and commercial hubs now have Korean stores selling beauty goods, and we’re excited to share that one of the most popular Korean skincare brands is now available on Shopee! Cosrx has become a cult favourite in the Philippines since the brand concentrates on well-formulated products with simple packaging that highlights the key components and ingredients. One of their most popular items is their Aloe Soothing Sun Cream, which is great for anyone who doesn’t prefer to use SPF. Overall, the cream does not smell like a typical sunscreen, is not sticky, and does not leave a white cast. It’s like wearing a luscious moisturizer that also protects your skin from premature ageing thanks to the aloe vera content. Overall, it’s a great sun cream that not only protects UVA and UVB rays but also hydrates your dry skin.
Why buy this:
- Formulated with 5,500ppm of Aloe Leaf
- Protects skin against UVA & UVB rays while hydrating
- Lightweight texture which absorbs quickly
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin
Check price on Shopee > |
13. GOODAL Houttuynia Cordata Calming Moisture Sun Cream SPF 50+
Multifunctional and value-for-money choice
Offering a broad spectrum of protection for Ultraviolet A and B, GOODAL Houttuynia Cordata Calming Moisture Sun Cream boasts of its functionality that makes it a valuable product you can invest in. This has an impressively lightweight and non-greasy feel that won’t be a bother for a whole day of outdoor activity. Additionally, this is formulated with houttuynia cordata extract which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient. We like that this helps soothe and hydrate your skin too. It is also free from harmful chemicals and has proven to be gentle for sensitive skin.
Why buy this:
- Multifunctional sunscreen
- Formulated with houttuynia cordata extract, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Soothes and hydrates sensitive skin
Check price on Shopee > |
14. NIVEA Sun Protect & Moisture Sunscreen
Best moisturizing lotion with SPF 50
If you like conventional lotion-type sunscreen for your body, the NIVEA Sun Protect & Moisture Lotion is on our list of highly recommended products. It offers broad-spectrum protection that protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays while keeping it moisturized. In addition, it is water-resistant so you can wear it anytime, anywhere to protect yourself from the sun. Its texture is rich and creamy, so blending may take a while, but don’t worry, it will still go away and leave a greasy layer just like your favourite lotion!
Why buy this:
- Water-resistant
- Non-sticky
- With a highly effective UVA/UVB filter system
- Offers skin a long-lasting moisture
Check prices on Shopee and Lazada > |
15. Human Nature SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen
100% natural formulation
Human Nature is the Philippines’ first line of highly affordable and genuinely natural goods. Each product is also formulated by Filipino scientists in their Natural Care Labs using the most advanced green chemistry and natural manufacturing technologies. As a result, its sunscreen promises to be made with organic ingredients that will not harm the reefs once washed off the skin. It’s also a fantastic pick for parents since its paraben-free and synthetic fragrance-free formulation helps safeguard your kid’s skin. Best of all, it also has a PA++++ rating, which means it offers the best protection against harmful UV rays indoors and outdoors. So, if you like beach escapades, this is the perfect sunscreen that everyone in your family can use and enjoy.
Why buy this:
- Highest PA++++ rating for superior protection against UVA rays
- Blocks skin burning UVB rays with SPF 30
- 100% natural formulation and free from reef-destroying ingredients
Check price on Shopee > |
16. blk Sheer Sunscreen Primer Stick
Makeup and skincare enthusiasts totally love multipurpose products because they’re easier to carry around, not to mention they also save you some cash! For all the makeup and skincare lovers in the Philippines, we highly recommend the BLK Sheer Sunscreen Primer Stick. In just one purchase, you get the benefits of both SPF40 UVA/UVB PA++++ protection and improved skin texture. We also love that it doesn’t leave any whitecast, and though this product doubles as a primer, it’s sweat-proof, waterproof, and foolproof–zero blending required! It’s really easy to apply too; just glide it on your face like a silky, lightweight balm. It promises no chalky cast and no oily sheen as well, making it perfect as a mattifying product for those with oily skin. Truly the one of the best sunscreens in the Philippines during hot and humid days!
What we love about the BLK sunscreen:
- A primer and a sunscreen in one easy-to-use stick
- It has a reliable SPF 40 UVA/UVB PA++++ protection
- Light on the skin, no white cast
Check prices on Shopee and Lazada > |
FAQ: Best Suncreens in the Philippines
Do I need to wear sunscreen every day in the Philippines?
Definitely. It’s actually recommended to use sunscreen daily, regardless of whether it’s sunny or cloudy outside! UV rays can actually penetrate through clouds and even inside our homes, so it’s really important to protect our skin from sun damage and also premature aging.
Do I need to use a separate sunscreen for the face and body?
It depends. There are sunscreens in the Philippines formulated for both face and body use. But most facial sunscreens have a lighter texture and may also contain additional ingredients tailored for the face. If you have acne-prone skin, we suggest using separate products to avoid irritation and breakouts.
Can I wear sunscreen under makeup?
Definitely. In fact, it’s recommended to apply sunscreen as the last step of your skincare routine before applying makeup. But if you feel like you’re using too much product, that’s where multipurpose sunscreens come in handy. Many of them double as a primer, a makeup base, or a moisturiser!
Do I need to reapply sunscreen?
Yes, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or as needed if you sweat a lot or if you’re swimming! Especially with the intense sun and high humidity in the Philippines, it can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen over time.
Are there sunscreens specific for oily skin in the Philippines?
Yup, and we recommend the mattifying ones! These sunscreens are formulated specifically for oily skin types. They won’t clog pores or feel greasy, and the formulas are usually ideal for combating humidity.
Conclusion
With all these amazing sunscreen brands and products listed, it can be a little overwhelming–believe us, we feel it too. But at the end of the day, we remind ourselves that skincare is part of a routine, and routines should be something we do willingly because it’s enjoyable, not just a chore. So take your time checking out these sunscreens by yourself. No rush!
Picking new skincare products like sunscreen is a trial and error process; it might or might not work, but that’s okay. In fact, if you have the means to consult with your dermatologist about your products before using them, it’s even better. If you’ve already found your perfect sun protection partner, please don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments and share your review with us! Our goal in writing this article is to provide recommendations, so we’ll try to spread the word as much as we can, and we hope you do the same.
This post was brought to you by The Wedding Vow.
Disclosure: All opinions remain the writer’s own. There may be paid or sponsored mentions in the above article, but we believe in honesty of relationship, opinion, and identity. We will only recommend services that we have tried and tested ourselves or have done extensive research and find them to be useful recommendations. The order of listing may not represent product ranking in terms of quality. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright & disclosure policy.
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